LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A routine trip home took a dramatic turn for a Kentucky National Guard Soldier on March 15.
U.S. Army Spc. Brandon Pollard was headed to his Lexington home after a drill at the Bowman Field Readiness Center in Louisville when he came across an overturned vehicle on I-64 near Simpsonville in Shelby County. The accident happened during heavy rainfall and storms.
Pollard found the vehicle off the roadway in a trench with the driver trapped inside. He pried open the door, removed the airbag and, along with another bystander, helped the victim from the wreckage.
Pollard said his only focus was providing help.
“I honestly didn’t even think about anything. I just literally thought about helping and getting to her,” Pollard said. “That was the only thing that was on my mind.”
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Benzie Timberlake praised Pollard for his actions and courage that day and said it demonstrates the degree of dedication of Kentucky Guardsmen.
“Adversity does not build character, it reveals it,” Timberlake said. “Spc. Pollard’s actions show what Soldiers can do when placed in difficult situations. He showcased unparallelled courage, resilience and selflessness that truly highlights our Kentucky National Guard’s extraordinary capabilities.”
Because of his actions, Pollard was awarded an Army Challenge Coin and a Brigade Commander/Command Sergeant Major Coin.
U.S. Army Col. Steven Engels, commander of the 75th Troop Command, said Pollard’s swift and selfless response in a moment of crisis demonstrated courage and unwavering commitment to community service.
“This decisive action not only saved a life but also reflected Spc. Pollard’s unwavering commitment to service and community safety as well as exceptional character,” Engels said.
Pollard belongs to the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade but is currently attached to the 75th Troop Command.